Approximately three months have passed since the first meeting with our Advisory Board, and last week it was time for our second one. With only one board member excused (and one researcher joining via video link) we were happy with the turnout and the dedication everyone continues to put towards the project. The meeting gave the research team a chance to share lessons from the recent pilot study, including examples of what type of data the study will produce, and discuss what was easy or difficult about collecting data in the different areas we piloted. We also spent a good deal of time discussing how to scale up data collection effectively, and how to best approach communities and households that will encourage people to participate. This is one of the areas where the board members are extremely valuable for the project, as residents from the different neighbourhoods we will study. Over the next few weeks we will continue to consult with individual members as we plan the roll-out of the survey in each area.
We also spent some time discussing the project’s long-term plans, reflecting on some examples of how research findings could be communicated in a way that is accessible and engaging for residents and other stakeholders. This important conversation will continue over the coming year.
In addition to this, we also took some time to re-state the purpose of the advisory board and talk about how we want to work together. We agreed on a Commitment of Conduct (find at the bottom of the Project Team tab), which will be a live document that might get updated as new needs or lessons arise.
We are now looking to finalise the data collection strategy, and start collecting survey responses. We will be assisted by four fieldworkers, trained and familiar with the project at large. Keep your eyes and ears open for announcements in your local media, and/or subscribe to this blog page for updates about when we will start. To do so, go to News & Events or our Contact page, enter your email address, and press “Subscribe”.
Unruly Natures Project 